De Silvestro ready for first F1 test

Simona De Silvestro will sample a Formula 1 car for the first time at the weekend when she tests for Sauber at Fiorano.

The Swiss racer joined Sauber at the start of the year as an 'affiliated driver' with the goal of joining the Formula 1 grid in 2015.

De Silvestro will conduct a two day test in the Sauber C31 at Fiorano, beginning on Saturday.

"Compared to IndyCars I have to adapt particularly when it comes to fitness," she said. "The neck and stamina are much more important [in Formula 1]. I was able to spend a few days in the simulator to get used to the speed as well as the braking response and handling.

"A Formula 1 car steering wheel is rather complex. It takes a while to understand all the knobs and buttons and what they do. Learning this is my daily piece of 'homework' right now!"

"I feel prepared to start the engine for the first time and I'm really thrilled. The test will be very exciting for me because it's different from what I'm used to racing. I've never driven a Formula 1 car before and I'm sure it'll take some time to get used to. But I'm pretty sure that I'll get a grip on it within two days.